Alfonso Charles Longo

Alfonso C. Longo, 94, passed away on April 13, 2014. Long prominent as a publicist in Boston, Al was born in the West End to Peter and Teresa (Lavina) Longo on June 18, 1919. The fourth of six siblings, he graduated from Dorchester High School For Boys and attended Boston University. Serving in the United States Marine Corps during World War II, he was stationed in Washington, D.C., San Diego, and Honolulu, and worked on the staff of The Leatherneck Magazine. Returning to Boston, Al began a long career in public relations at Loew's Theatres, where he met his future business partner, Sandy Giampapa. They founded Publicity, Inc. in 1946, and together they served a roster of clients spanning sports, entertainment, and corporations for more than fifty years. Al also had ownership interest in Pleasure Island, an amusement park in Wakefield, during the 1960's, and quietly supported a number of charitable causes. In 1947, Al married Helen (LaRosa) Longo. They raised their two children, Patrice Longo Dworkin and Peter C. Longo, in Winchester, where they also enjoyed golf, tennis, and curling. In 1985, Helen and Al moved to Danvers, where they delighted in living and golfing at Ferncroft. Helen passed away in 2004. Al is survived by his daughter and son-in-law Patrice and Steven Dworkin of Pacific Palisades, CA, his son and daughter-in-law Peter and Sharyn Longo of Danvers, sister Anne Mondeau of Arvada, CO, grandchildren Adam and Chloe Dworkin and Travis and Nikolas Longo, and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be private. Expressions of sympathy may be made in Al Longo's name to Bedford V.A. Hospital, Attn: Voluntary Services, 200 Spring Rd, Bedford, MA, 01730.